Illinois Enacts New Laws on Soybeans, Organ Donation, Flags, and Reading
As Illinois rings in the New Year, nearly 300 new laws are set to take effect, affecting various aspects of daily life for residents. These reforms encompass topics such as official state symbols, taxation, education, and health. Below is an overview of some significant laws enacted by the Illinois legislature.
New Illinois Laws for 2026
Taxation Changes
- Grocery Tax Elimination: Starting January 1, 2026, the 1% statewide grocery tax will be eliminated. However, about half of Illinois municipalities have reinstated the tax at the local level, impacting approximately 660 communities.
State Symbol Designation
- State Bean: House Bill 4439 designates the soybean as the official state bean, a change finalized by the 103rd Illinois General Assembly.
Education and Workforce Development
- Early Reading Screening: Senate Bill 1672 mandates that school districts submit early literacy screening reports by the 30th day of the school year, aimed at identifying students at risk for reading difficulties.
- Higher Education Credit for Firefighting Training: House Bill 1149 encourages educational institutions to award academic credit for firefighting training, effective before June 1, 2027.
- AI Guidance in Schools: Senate Bill 1920 requires the Illinois State Board of Education to develop guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms.
- College Cost Transparency: Senate Bill 1376 requires colleges to post attendance cost data from the past decade, helping students understand their potential financial burden.
Workplace Regulations
- Organ Donor Leave: House Bill 1616 grants part-time employees up to 10 days off to donate organs, providing important support for organ donation efforts.
- Artificial Intelligence in Employment: House Bill 3773 prohibits the discriminatory use of AI in hiring and employment practices.
Public Safety and Health
- Opioid Antagonists in Libraries: House Bill 1910 requires public libraries to keep opioid antagonists accessible for emergencies.
- Toxic Baby Food Regulations: Senate Bill 73 prohibits the sale of baby food containing harmful substances, aiming to protect children’s health.
- Sesame as Allergen: Senate Bill 1288 adds sesame to the list of major food allergens, enhancing food safety regulations.
Miscellaneous Legislative Changes
- U.S. Flag Display: House Bill 1615 allows the U.S. flag to be displayed around courthouses, expanding previous regulations.
- Vehicle Length Restrictions: Senate Bill 899 gives the Illinois Department of Transportation authority to regulate vehicle lengths on designated roadways.
- Students’ Rights: House Bill 3247 protects immigrant students’ access to public education, prohibiting their exclusion based on immigration status.
With these updates, Illinois lawmakers address a wide range of issues, hoping to improve life for residents across the state. Each law reflects a commitment to enhancing transparency, safety, and educational opportunities, signifying a fresh start for the New Year.
